Hi Stephen,
That's right! Students do want to know that they are learning from someone that is knowledgeable about the subject matter. As instructors, we certainly should look the part. I am a suit person, and I wear my suits so that I stand apart from the students, and I look very professional.
Patricia
Looking professional in dress is very important in the classroom. It immediately sets the tone for the class and you as an instructor. I have over 30 years in Healthcare and I usually laugh and say no I am not 80 years old when introducing my healthcare background. They want to know you are proficient on the topic and can discuss it in length.
Hi Sara,
Impressive list! I can tell you strive to be a role model for your students. Preparation is the key to success!! Preparation is a must!
Patricia
Introducing yourself and letting the class know some of your merits/repertoire can help start a foundation where the class will be more conducive to a proper learning environment. As the teacher of the class, you lead by example. Making sure that you are confident and respectful will leave a great impression on the students. Image is also important, looking the part shows the students that you take yourself seriously as a professional.
1. Know your material
2. Be prepared
3. Be over-prepared
4. Take advantage of opportunities to connect what you're teaching to what students have experienced and to what they are planning to do with their lives.
5. Respect your students
6. Enjoy your interactions with them
7. Realize that every student has knowledge and something valuable to offer the class.
Hi Joe,
That's right, as instructors we MUST lead by example. We must be the professional that we want our students to become so that they will have an excellent role model to emulate.
Patricia
When you are trying to teach not only technical information but are trying to teach them to be professional in all there interactions, as an instructor you have to walk to walk and show by example.
Hi Franklin,
I concur! Our appearance and all other areas of professionalism should be levels higher than the students. We should model the professional that we want our students to be.
Patricia
actually just dressing for the part, i've found, can heavily improve your image with the instructors. Definitely have to dress better than the students, at the very least.
Hi Brandon,
I understand! I tend not to joke because most jokes are over my head, and I am simply not a joker, however I am strong when it comes to writing/saying positive comments.
Patricia
Hi Ramona,
Excitement is contagious, and it really starts with the instructor.
Patricia
I do think if you show excitement about what you are teaching it will flow over onto your students.
The steps that I am working on personally are: using constructive comments at all time. That is no sarcasm at all and trying not to joke with them.
I feel that it is okay to make it a fun learning environment, but sometimes when I joke around not everyone understands my sense of humor.
Hi Janet,
I like your perspective when it comes to showing a positive instructor image. The instructor sets the tone for the classroom be it good or bad, and it appears you set a positive tone for your classroom.
Patricia
One of the approaches I take in creating a positive instructor image is to lead by example and always show optimism and energy in the classroom. I tell students that going into school or work with a positive attitude, even when they are having a bad start, will change their whole day around. Favorite saying, "What goes around, comes around." I also give examples of this during the course to help support the thought and practice of being positive.
Hi Amy,
You certainly have listed some of the top characteristics of an instructor. Students want to learn from someone that is knowledgeable and professional in all areas.
Patricia
Teachers should be organized, prepared, and dress and speak well. Students will sum up your outward appearance immediately, if you look dishoveled you have lost credibility. Begin organized is being a teacher it is a must.
Hi Loretta,
We must lead by example, and the list you have shared are certainly ways to lead by example.
Patricia
Being on time
Dress professionally
Organized and also knowing where to find info
in a book, classroom shelf, etc.
Hi Fay,
It sounds like you are a true professional. Continue to lead by example. Our students need as many role models as possible.
Patricia
